In June, FireTox started researching the impact of medications on fall & fire risks in the older adult population. The project is funded by the Fire Protection Research Foundation in conjunction with the Department of Homeland Security. Our research hypothesis states that certain medications and polypharmacy can increase the risk of falls and fires in older adults. We are testing this hypothesis by reviewing the literature on medication use and falls and fires, performing a healthcare landscape assessment and reviewing case studies on medication use and fall and fire incidents. A survey of current community risk reduction programs will also be performed to determine their impact on fire and fall risks in the older adult population. This work will help to support the NFPA Remembering When program. We are thrilled to be working on this important project which will improve community risk reduction programs for older adults. The results of this research are expected to be published in November 2021.
